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The 253 bus route London is one of the most essential transport services in North and Central London, providing a convenient link between Hackney Central and Euston Bus Station.
This route is widely used by commuters, students, and tourists as it passes through key areas such as Clapton, Stamford Hill, Manor House, Finsbury Park, Holloway, and Camden.
Operated by Transport for London (TfL), the 253 bus runs daily with frequent services, making it a reliable choice for those travelling across the city.
This guide will provide a detailed look at the route, its stops, maps, live updates, schedules, fares, and alternative transport options.
What are the full stops and the map for the 253 bus route in London?
The 253 bus route London has several important stops that serve residential areas, major roads, and transport hubs. Here is the full list of stops along the route:
Complete List of 253 Bus Stops and Codes
| Stop Name | Code |
| Hackney Central Station | Bus stop J |
| Amhurst Road / Hackney Downs Station | Bus stop L |
| Mare Street / Narrow Way | Bus stop R |
| Hackney Baths | Bus stop U |
| Glenarm Road | Bus stop Z |
| Clapton Girls’ Academy | Bus stop L |
| Clapton Pond | Bus stop H |
| Lea Bridge Roundabout | Bus stop M |
| Upper Clapton Road / Brooke Road | Bus stop O |
| Clapton Station | Bus stop P |
| Rossington Street | Bus stop UE |
| Cazenove Road | Bus stop UF |
| Jessam Avenue | Bus stop UH |
| Forburg Road | Bus stop UJ |
| Clapton Common | Bus stop CU |
| Stamford Hill Broadway | Bus stop CV |
| Manor House Station | Bus stop H |
| Finsbury Park Station | Bus stop S |
| Camden Town Station | Bus stop R |
| Euston Station | Bus stop B |
| Euston Bus Station | Bus stop AP |
These stops provide connections to the London Underground, National Rail, and other bus services across the city.
How can I check live updates for the 253 bus route London?
Staying updated on the 253 bus route London is easy with real-time tracking tools. Whether you’re at a bus stop or planning your journey in advance, several apps and websites provide live arrival times, service updates, and delay notifications.
Best Ways to Check 253 Bus Live Updates
- TfL Bus Arrivals: The official Transport for London (TfL) website provides real-time updates on bus locations, arrival times, and service disruptions.
- Moovit App: A popular travel app that offers live tracking, alternative routes, and real-time alerts for public transport in London.
- Citymapper App: Ideal for planning your journey, Citymapper provides live bus arrivals, estimated travel time, and walking directions to your nearest stop.
- Google Maps (Live Bus Tracking): Google Maps integrates with TfL’s live data, allowing passengers to see real-time bus movements, arrival times, and the best route options.
By using these tools, passengers can avoid unnecessary waiting, plan efficient routes, and stay informed about potential delays or changes to the 253 bus service.
What is the 253 bus route London schedule and frequency?
The 253 bus route London operates daily with a frequent and reliable service. Buses run from early morning until midnight, making it a convenient option for commuters and travellers.
Here’s a quick overview of the schedule:
| Day | First Bus | Last Bus | Frequency (minutes) |
| Monday – Saturday | 05:25 | 00:20 | 7-10 mins |
| Sunday | 05:25 | 00:20 | 8-10 mins |
During peak hours (morning and evening rush hours), buses arrive every 7 minutes, while off-peak times have a slightly longer waiting time of 10 minutes. On Sundays, the frequency is 8-10 minutes due to reduced demand.
How much does it cost to travel on the 253 bus route London?
Travelling on the 253 bus route London is affordable and convenient, thanks to Transport for London’s (TfL) cashless payment system. Whether you’re taking a single trip or multiple journeys, there are various fare options to suit different needs.
Here’s a breakdown of the fares:
| Fare Type | Cost | Details |
| Oyster Card / Contactless | £1.75 per journey | Standard single fare for all London buses |
| TfL Bus Hopper Fare | £1.75 (unlimited for 1 hour) | Allows unlimited bus & tram transfers within an hour at no extra cost |
| Weekly Bus Pass | £24.70 | Unlimited travel on London buses for 7 days |
| Monthly Bus Pass | £94.50 | Unlimited travel for a full calendar month |
| Annual Bus Pass | £985 | Cost-effective option for daily commuters |
| Discounted Fares | Varies | Available for students, seniors, apprentices, and disabled passengers |
Important Notes
- Cash is not accepted on London buses, including the 253 bus route.
- You can use an Oyster card, contactless debit/credit card, or a travel pass to pay for your journey.
- The Hopper Fare allows you to make multiple bus or tram trips within an hour for just £1.75, as long as you tap in within the 60-minute window.
- Discounted fares are available for students, apprentices, seniors (60+), and passengers with disabilities check TfL’s website for eligibility.
How busy is the 253 bus route London during peak hours?
The 253 bus route London is a heavily used service, especially during morning and evening rush hours. It serves commuters, students, and tourists, leading to high passenger volumes at key stops like Finsbury Park, Camden Town, and Euston Station.
Peak Hour Busyness Analysis
| Time of Day | Passenger Load | Estimated Waiting Time |
| Morning Rush (07:00 – 09:30) | Very High | 5-7 minutes |
| Midday (10:00 – 15:30) | Moderate | 7-10 minutes |
| Evening Rush (16:30 – 19:30) | Very High | 5-7 minutes |
| Late Night (20:00 – 00:20) | Low | 10-12 minutes |
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
- Travel before 07:00 AM or after 10:00 AM to avoid the morning rush.
- For evening travel, aim for after 19:30 when passenger numbers decrease.
- Use TfL Live Bus Updates to check bus occupancy and expected wait times.
If you’re in a hurry, consider using alternative transport options like the Victoria Line (Finsbury Park to Euston) or Northern Line (Camden to Euston) during peak hours.
What are the alternative transport options to the 253 bus route London?
If the 253 bus route London is delayed or unavailable, passengers can use alternative buses, Tube lines, or train services to reach their destination. Several options run along similar routes, providing quick and efficient travel alternatives.
Alternative Transport Options for the 253 Bus Route
| Transport Type | Alternative Routes | Key Stops Covered |
| London Underground | Victoria Line | Finsbury Park → Euston |
| Northern Line | Camden Town → Euston | |
| Bus Alternatives | Bus 254 | Hackney → Stamford Hill → Holloway |
| Bus 29 | Finsbury Park → Camden → Central London | |
| London Overground | Hackney Central Station | Connects to Stratford, Highbury & Islington |
| National Rail | Euston Station | Connects to regional and national train services |
Key Travel Tips
- Victoria Line: Provides a fast connection between Finsbury Park and Euston, making it an ideal substitute for the 253 bus in central London.
- Northern Line: A great option for those heading towards Camden Town or Euston.
- Bus 254 & Bus 29: These buses follow a similar route to the 253, covering major stops.
- Overground & National Rail: If you’re travelling further, Hackney Central and Euston Station offer connections to regional train services.
Is the 253 bus route London wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the 253 bus route London is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring that passengers with mobility needs can travel comfortably. All TfL buses, including the 253, are low-floor and equipped with ramps, making it easier for wheelchair users, elderly passengers, and those with prams or strollers to board and alight safely.
Accessibility Features on the 253 Bus
| Feature | Details |
| Low-Floor Access | Buses have step-free entry for easier boarding. |
| Wheelchair Spaces | Each bus has a dedicated space for wheelchair users. |
| Priority Seating | Reserved seats for elderly passengers, disabled individuals, and pregnant women. |
| Audio & Visual Announcements | Stops are announced for visually and hearing-impaired passengers. |
| Ramp Access | Ramps are available at every door for smooth boarding. |
Tips for Accessible Travel
- Board at the front door, where the driver can assist if needed.
- Press the blue wheelchair button near the wheelchair space to signal the driver when you need to exit.
- Use the TfL accessibility checker on the TfL website or Citymapper app to plan the best route with accessibility in mind.
London’s public transport is designed to be inclusive, ensuring that everyone can travel safely and conveniently.
What are some key landmarks along the 253 bus route London?
The 253 bus route London passes through several iconic landmarks and neighbourhoods, making it a great route for sightseeing as well as commuting. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, here are some notable places you’ll see along the journey:
Famous Landmarks on the 253 Bus Route
| Landmark | Nearest Stop | Why Visit? |
| Hackney Central | Hackney Central Station (Stop J) | Shopping, markets, and trendy cafes. |
| Clapton Pond | Clapton Pond (Stop H) | Historic green space with scenic views. |
| Finsbury Park | Manor House Station (Stop H) | Large park with sports facilities and events. |
| Camden Market | Camden Town Station (Stop R) | Famous market for street food, vintage fashion, and live music. |
| Mornington Crescent | Mornington Crescent Station (Stop G) | Historic area with theatres and cultural sites. |
| Euston Station | Euston Station (Stop B) | Major transport hub for trains and Underground connections. |
If you’re looking to explore London on a budget, the 253 bus route is an excellent way to see the city’s vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and diverse neighbourhoods all for the price of a single bus fare!
Conclusion
The 253 bus route London is an important public transport link, offering frequent services and connections to major Tube and train stations. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a tourist, this bus route is an easy and affordable way to travel between Hackney, Stamford Hill, Finsbury Park, Camden, and Euston.
FAQ About the 253 Bus Route London
Is the 253 bus route London reliable during peak hours?
Yes, but expect delays during rush hours, especially at major stops like Finsbury Park and Camden Town.
Can I use my contactless card on the 253 bus?
Yes, you can use a contactless debit/credit card, Oyster card, or a travel pass to pay for your journey.
Does the 253 bus route London operate 24/7?
No, the 253 bus runs from 05:25 AM to 00:20 AM, with no night service.
How long does a full journey on the 253 bus take?
A full trip from Hackney Central to Euston takes around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
Is there a live tracker for the 253 bus?
Yes, you can track the bus in real-time using TfL Live Bus Arrivals, Moovit, or Citymapper.
Are there alternative buses if the 253 is delayed?
Yes, you can take the 254, 29, or use the Victoria and Northern Tube lines for similar routes.
Does the 253 bus have wheelchair access?
Yes, all 253 buses are low-floor, equipped with ramps, and have dedicated wheelchair spaces.